DIY Pizza Bar

By Inna Kagan, Registered Dietitian

Are you looking for a fun, interactive way to get the whole family involved in preparing dinner? Creating a DIY pizza night at home is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together and connect over the shared experience of cooking. Plus, allowing everyone to mix and match different toppings adds an element of creativity and individuality to each pizza. Keep reading for five topping combinations that are delicious and still full of nutrition!

 

Every pizza starts with a good crust. If you have extra time and are up to the challenge, try making Home Base’s Homemade Pizza Dough recipe: Cooking Demos with Home Base: Homemade Pizza Dough, complete with step-by-step instructions and a video tutorial! If putting dinner on the table quickly is more of a priority, ready-to-bake or frozen crusts are also great options. Follow instructions on the package to make sure the crust is cooked before adding the toppings.

 

Idea #1: Classic Margherita

Spread an even layer of tomato sauce over the pizza dough. Cover with mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced tomato, and fresh basil for a simple yet classic flavor combination.

 

Idea #2: BBQ Chicken

Spread your favorite BBQ sauce over the pizza dough. Chop or shred cooked chicken and toss evenly with BBQ sauce, then arrange on the crust. Top with your choice of cheese (mozzarella or cheddar are great in this recipe) and thinly sliced red onion for added crunch.

 

Idea #3: Veggie Central

 

This is not your typical pizza, but it proves plant-based versions are just as flavorful! Spread your favorite hummus over the crust as sauce. Top with arugula, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, chopped broccoli, and chickpeas. You’ll really eat the rainbow with this one!

 

Idea #4: Sausage, Peppers, and Onions

Spread a layer of tomato sauce over the pizza dough. Cover the crust with a handful of mozzarella cheese. In a separate pan, cook ground sausage until browned and drain excess liquid. You could also use pre-cooked sausages and slice them into rounds. Thinly slice an onion and bell peppers, and arrange everything on the crust. Frozen veggies can also be used here for a prep-free swap that is just as nutritious as fresh!

 

Idea #5: Pesto Party

This is a white sauce pizza — instead of tomato sauce, spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese over the pizza dough. Top with grilled or rotisserie chicken, thinly sliced tomato, and sprinkle with mozzarella or parmesan cheese. For the finishing touch before baking, add some dollops of pesto throughout the pizza, or drizzle it on for extra artistic flair.

 

By Inna Kagan, Registered Dietitian